Latest news with #SMT
Economic Times
2 hours ago
- Business
- Economic Times
PE funds vie for a majority stake in medical devices maker Sensa Core
Agencies Founded in 2006 by Ravi K. Meruva, Sensa Core also provides operational support and maintenance services for other electrolyte analyser brands. Mumbai: KKR, TPG, Kedaara Capital, and Multiples Alternate Asset Management are among homegrown and global private equity firms in early-stage discussions to acquire a majority stake in Sensa Core Medical Instrumentation, one of India's leading medical device manufacturers, said people familiar with the matter.A potential deal is likely to value the Hyderabad-based company at about $300 million (about ₹2,600 crore), the people said. They added that the interested PE firms are likely to submit non-binding bids within the next people cited above did not disclose the size of the stake the PE firms are looking to by the Meruva family, Sensa Core is one of the largest domestic producers of in-vitro diagnostic analysers and point-of-care devices. Its key products include blood gas analysers, electrolyte analysers, glucose meters, lactate meters, haemoglobin meters, and cholesterol meters. Investment bank Veda Corporate Advisors is advising the promoters of Sensa Core on the potential transaction. "The said information is baseless, and we do not respond to rumours," said Nagaraju Meruva, executive director at Sensa Core Medical Instrumentation. A KKR spokesperson declined to comment. Mails sent to TPG, Kedaara, Multiples did not elicit any response. Founded in 2006 by Ravi K. Meruva, Sensa Core also provides operational support and maintenance services for other electrolyte analyser FY25, Sensa Core is estimated to have recorded a revenue of about ₹400 crore, and ₹80-100 crore in EBITDA, people said."Medical devices are one of the most attractive sectors for private equity investors," said a PE fund manager evaluating a potential bid for Sensa Core. "Once a strong distribution network is in place and trust is established with doctors, companies in this space tend to generate steady, predictable revenues. Today, Indian medical device manufacturers are on par with global players in terms of quality."India's medtech space is experiencing a surge in investor week, UAE sovereign wealth fund Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) took a minority stake in Micro Life Sciences (Meril), a Warburg Pincus-backed firm, for $200 investor KKR, which has been actively investing in the healthcare sector, acquired Healthium Medtech (formerly Sutures India) from Apax Partners in a deal valued at ₹7,000 crore last year. Prior to Apax, TPG Growth held a 75% stake in Healthium. Last year, PE contenders KKR, TPG Capital, and Apax had shown initial interest in acquiring Sahajanand Medical Technologies (SMT), India's largest manufacturer of cardiac stents. However, the deal didn't materialise and SMT is currently preparing for an IPO. SMT counts Morgan Stanley PE Asia and Samara Capital among its investors, with the two collectively holding a 49% stake. India's medical devices industry, valued at $12 billion as of FY24, is projected to grow more than fourfold to $50 billion by 2030. Over the next 25 years, India's global market share in this industry is projected to climb to 10-12% from 1.6% medtech exports reached $3.8 billion in FY24, with the US as the primary market. Despite robust exports, India remains heavily import-reliant, with $8.2 billion in imports, and as much as 80-85% of medical devices sourced internationally, according to a recent EY report. With strategic growth and innovation, India is well-positioned to strengthen its medtech industry and reduce import dependency, making significant strides toward becoming a global leader in the sector, the report said.
TimesLIVE
6 hours ago
- Sport
- TimesLIVE
Soweto Marathon on track despite money spat
Organisers of the Soweto Marathon have assured the public this year's race will definitely take place, after fears it would not continue amid infighting over finances. The event was supposed to launch this month, but internal divisions within the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) board have apparently delayed that, triggering fears the 'People's Race' could be scuppered. In February, the Soweto Marathon Trust (SMT) and all structures linked to it were dissolved after a forensic probe. In 2023, the SMT trustees were accused of dipping into the funds without approval, leading to the trust's bank account being frozen and four trustees suspended. Three of them were subsequently expelled by Athletics SA (ASA). A member of one of the Soweto athletics clubs involved in the race organising committee who asked to remain anonymous, told Sowetan the launch for this year's edition will take place in the middle of next month. He said the delay for launching the race was because they were still finalising a non-profit organisation where the sponsors will be able to put in the funds to run the race.
Associated Press
23-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
LongCloud Engineering Unveils SMT Stud – The Ultimate Solution for Enhanced Reliability and Ease of Use in Fastening Systems
LongCloud Engineering introduces its advanced SMT Stud, designed for Surface Mount Technology (SMT) applications. Offering unmatched reliability, efficiency, and a unique anti-rotation feature, it is an essential component for modern PCB assembly lines. Taiwan, July 23, 2025 -- Taiwan – July 20, 2025 – LongCloud Engineering, a leader in fastening solutions, has launched the SMT Stud, a groundbreaking advancement in the world of printed circuit board (PCB) assembly. The innovative SMT Stud uses Surface Mount Technology (SMT) to provide a more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective alternative to traditional screw and nut methods for affixing studs onto PCBs. Designed with a square bottom, the LongCloud SMT Stud ensures a secure fit that prevents material rotation, thereby enhancing torque and delivering 100% reliability. The stud's integrated guide and alignment function streamline the installation process, making it more efficient and convenient for operators. Additionally, the SMT soldering process used in the assembly ensures that the stud remains firmly affixed during production, reducing the risk of component loss and improving overall yield. Key Features and Advantages of SMT Stud: The SMT Stud Process: During production, the SMT Stud is picked up by a vacuum nozzle and placed accurately onto the solder pad of the PCB. After the heating and cooling cycle, the stud is securely assembled onto the board. This streamlined process, powered by automation, reduces labor costs and enhances production efficiency. LongCloud's commitment to maintaining high-quality standards ensures that each SMT Stud is manufactured to meet rigorous reliability expectations, guaranteeing customer satisfaction. Customization and Collaboration: LongCloud Engineering is dedicated to providing exceptional OEM, ODM, and JDM services. The company works closely with clients to create custom-engineered machine screws and other fasteners that optimize efficiency across multiple industries. With its rapid prototyping capabilities, flexible production models, and extensive material expertise, LongCloud Engineering delivers high-performance solutions tailored to the unique requirements of each client. About LongCloud Engineering: LongCloud Engineering is a trusted global leader in the design and manufacture of fastening solutions, specializing in mechanical fasteners for PCB assembly and other precision applications. Known for its innovation and dedication to quality, LongCloud offers a comprehensive range of products that cater to industries such as electronics, automotive, and aerospace. With a focus on customer satisfaction and continuous product innovation, LongCloud Engineering continues to lead the way in advanced fastening technologies. For more information, visit: Contact Info: Name: Benson Lin Email: Send Email Organization: LongCloud Engineering Website: Release ID: 89165306 If there are any problems, discrepancies, or queries related to the content presented in this press release, we kindly ask that you notify us immediately at [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our responsive team will be available round-the-clock to address your concerns within 8 hours and take necessary actions to rectify any identified issues or support you with press release takedowns. Ensuring accurate and trustworthy information is our unwavering commitment.
Online Citizen
15-07-2025
- Business
- Online Citizen
PM Wong reaffirms ‘full support and confidence' in ST as netizens question its impartiality
SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has underlined the importance of trusted journalism, declaring that Singapore needs credible media more than ever to help society distinguish fact from falsehood in an increasingly complex world. Speaking on 11 July 2025 at a dinner celebrating the 180th anniversary of The Straits Times (ST), Wong reiterated the government's 'full support and confidence' in the publication's mission to inform, educate, and hold Singapore society together. His backing comes amid ongoing debate over the independence of Singapore's main English-language newspaper. Many Singaporeans have taken to social media to question whether ST can operate free of state influence, especially after substantial government funding was pledged to its parent, SPH Media Trust (SMT). In February 2022, the government announced up to S$900 million in funding over five years for SMT, which operates ST. This support, of up to S$180 million a year, is intended to sustain quality journalism and keep the national newspaper financially viable as advertising revenues fall and audiences move online. The injection of public money followed SMT's restructuring in 2021, when it was separated from Singapore Press Holdings to function as a not-for-profit entity. The move was aimed at ensuring that the nation's flagship paper could adapt to the challenges of digital disruption and remain a trusted source of news. PM Wong: Government support essential to keep public service media viable, independent, and accountable Wong acknowledged that globally, traditional news outlets face shrinking newsrooms and commercial pressures that threaten editorial quality. He cautioned against allowing Singapore's national newspaper to fall into the hands of private billionaires with partisan aims or to let public trust in the press erode as a result of poor funding. 'We cannot allow that to happen here in Singapore,' Wong said. 'We do not want our national newspaper to be owned by billionaires with narrow or partisan agendas. Nor do we want public trust in the media to be eroded.' He explained that government support is essential to keep public service media viable, independent, and accountable to Singaporeans. PM Wong: ST must adapt and stay relevant Wong also acknowledged that ST faces unprecedented competition, not just from other reputable outlets but from content creators and distractions across countless digital platforms. He called on the paper's editors and journalists to adapt boldly to remain relevant to future readers, even if that means significant changes to the newspaper's style, tone, or length in the coming decade. 'I believe there will still be a place for print, and we should all do our best to keep print newspapers viable in Singapore for as long as possible,' Wong said. He added that while the government supports ST's mission, it would not dictate the editorial choices needed to keep the paper meaningful to Singaporeans. Minister Josephine Teo echoes call for trusted news Communications and Information Minister Josephine Teo also emphasised the government's commitment to trusted media. She noted that Singaporeans must have reliable sources to inform decisions affecting their daily lives and futures. 'We remain very committed to ensuring that our public service media can continue to capture the attention of our audience,' Teo said. Public doubts over impartiality: 'Will ST pose hard questions to those in power?' Despite such reassurances, scepticism persists. Many Singaporeans have questioned whether the government's financial backing allows ST to remain truly independent. On social media platforms such as Reddit and Facebook, netizens have asked if journalists at ST will pose hard questions to those in power. Some doubt whether the paper can avoid serving as a government mouthpiece, given its reliance on state funding. One Reddit comment described the newspaper as a 'monopoly' that still requires government help despite diversifying its business interests into property and aged care. Concerns about media control Another comment criticised what they saw as irony in PM Wong's rejection of billionaire-owned outlets, pointing out that ST is already heavily funded and indirectly controlled by the state. Some argued that both billionaire ownership and state control can threaten true journalistic independence. One user wrote that Singaporeans should not have to choose between 'billionaire-owned media and state-owned media,' but should instead have independent journalists who report in the public interest. Comparisons to other countries Several netizens compared Singapore's situation to international examples. One noted that while government ownership carries a partisan slant, at least an elected government is accountable to citizens — unlike unelected billionaires. However, others countered that real media independence comes from autonomy, not state or corporate influence. One cited the BBC as an outlet that once enjoyed a reputation for neutrality but has struggled to maintain it amid funding debates. The user suggested that ST could position itself as a truly neutral outlet providing balanced coverage of both Eastern and Western perspectives, arguing that doing so could fill a gap left by declining trust in other global media brands. Ravi Philemon: ST already heavily funded and controlled by the state Ravi Philemon, Chief of Red Dot United, also weighed in the debate, criticised PM Wong's remark about rejecting billionaire-owned media as ironic, pointing out that The ST is already heavily funded and controlled by the state. 'It is already funded to the tune of one billion dollars to keep a ruling party, one that seems more aligned with the filthy rich than with anyone else, in power,' Philemon commented in a FB post on 12 July. He argued that Singapore's ruling party uses public money to maintain a media system that serves its own power rather than true public interest journalism. He highlighted that despite claims of independence, the press avoids asking tough questions and fails to challenge the government meaningfully. Philemon warned that this controlled media environment keeps Singaporeans uninformed about real struggles like rising debt and inequality. He warned that the real threat is not foreign billionaires, but a media kept loyal through state funding, which preserves a system that benefits the wealthy and entrenches political power. Calls for media literacy and critical reading Some Singaporeans stressed the importance of critical reading and media literacy. They argued that citizens should consult a range of credible outlets rather than depend solely on one publication, whether state-backed or privately owned. One user commented that media must serve the people and retain enough autonomy to scrutinise those in power without fear or favour. Another urged fellow Singaporeans to read widely, pointing out that a healthy democracy relies on an informed citizenry capable of questioning any narrative. Singapore ranks low on press freedom, with RSF citing lack of editorial independence According to the 2025 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders on 2 May, Singapore ranked 123rd out of 180 countries. The report criticised Singapore as an example not to follow, citing a severe lack of editorial independence and little respect for press freedom. RSF noted that independent political journalism is scarce, with outlets like The Online Citizen forced into exile.
Scotsman
14-07-2025
- Politics
- Scotsman
Edinburgh Retro: 15 fascinating pictures of Capital buses in the 1990s, from model bus to museum piece
But it's not all about getting to work or going to the shops. Buses are also important for tourists; and when it comes to election time, visiting politicians often arrive by battle bus . There's a vintage bus from the museum, a model bus built for charity, some old shots of the bus station and one or two crashes as well. Scroll through and get a feel for some of the ways buses featured in the Capital's life in the 1990s. 1 . Vintage bus museum piece A Leyland Tiger single-decker vintage bus from the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum in July 1992. The museum, established in 1986, was based in Whitburn, West Lothian, before moving to its current location at Lathalmond, near Dunfermline, in 1995. | TSPL Photo: Denis Straughan Photo Sales 2 . St Andrew Square bus station SMT buses at St Andrew Square bus station, Edinburgh, September 1992. | TSPL Photo: Alistair Linford Photo Sales 3 . Bus garage art gallery The Eastern Scottish bus garage in New Street was one of several options proposed as the site for a new National Gallery of Scottish Art in February 1992. | TSPL Photo: Jack Crombie Photo Sales 4 . Spitting Image puppets on tour Spitting Image puppets of John Major, President Mitterand and Chancellor Kohl, take a bus-top tour of Edinburgh in December 1992 to coincide with the city hosting a European summit. | TSPL Photo: Adam Elder Photo Sales Related topics: NostalgiaBuses
